During a ceremony held Thursday afternoon at the DeBaun Auditorium on the campus of Stevens Institute of Technology, Councilwoman Emily Jabbour was sworn in as the second female Mayor in Hoboken’s history.
Jabbour succeeds Ravi Bhalla, who took the oath of office representing the 32nd Legislative District as a New Jersey Assemblyman earlier in the week. Hoboken Councilman Jim Doyle served as Acting Mayor for two days.
Also sworn in on Thursday were Council At Large members, incumbent Joe Quintero, and newcomers Steve Firestone and Caitlyn Layson. Jabbour and the three At Large Council members were sworn in by Governor-Elect Mikie Sherrill.
In her inauguration speech, Mayor Jabbour focused on her campaign promises; safety, affordability, a more collaborative and open relationship with the City Council, parking, quality of life, and a City Hall that works better for Hoboken. She also promised that her administrative leadership will be guided by service and substance, not Nixles and press statements.
When the City Council met last night, Councilman Ruben Ramos was elected by his colleagues to serve as Council President for the next year.
Councilman Ramos stated, “I am truly honored by this opportunity, and I am excited to work together with the entire community as we begin a new chapter for Hoboken. Looking ahead, we have a full and important year in front of us. We will be addressing major issues such as budgets, significant development proposals, infrastructure, affordable housing needs, and public safety priorities.”
Ramos continued, “These are big challenges, but they are also real opportunities to strengthen our city and improve quality of life for everyone who calls Hoboken home. As we take on this work, I will continue to rely on our Back to Basics approach: strong communication, responsible decision making, and a commitment to practical solutions that put residents first. I am ready to roll up my sleeves, work with Mayor Jabbour, and partner with all of my council colleagues to make sure we stay focused on what matters most.”